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McDonnells GUILTY Of Most Counts In Corruption Trial

The jury in Richmond federal court has found former governor Bob McDonnell and his wife Maureen guilty of most of the counts against them in their corruption trial. Bob McDonnell has been found guilty on 11 of 13 counts. Maureen McDonnell was found guilty on 9 of 13. The McDonnells were convicted in a public corruption case that accused them of conspiring to use his office to promote a businessman’s product in exchange for gifts. The jury returned the first verdict just before 3 p.m. Thursday. Both Bob and Maureen McDonnell bowed their heads and wept as a chorus of “guiltys” kept coming from the court clerk. Sentencing will occur in January. Governor McAuliffe issued a statement: “I am deeply saddened by the events of the trial that ended in today’s verdict, and the impact it has had on our Commonwealth’s reputation for honesty and clean government. Dorothy and I will continue to pray for the McDonnell family and for everyone who was affected by this trial.” Reaction from Delegate David Toscano: “Whatever one thinks about the actions of the former Governor and First Lady, you cannot help but be saddened by what has happened to them and to our Commonwealth. The decision closes a depressing chapter in Virginia history. The jury carefully considered the evidence and has now spoken. With its verdict, it sends a clear message that public officials are not above the law and that those of us who have the honor to serve have a special responsibility to keep the public trust. I hope this verdict will improve the prospects of enacting further ethics and campaign finance reform in the Commonwealth.”